Cataracts are the clouding of the eye lenses that result in impaired or total loss of vision. This problem occurs when the protein in the eyes form clumps preventing the lens from sending visual information to the retina. The retina is in charge of converting these visual images into signals and sends them to the brain. This process is done over the optic nerve that transmits the information. So, when cataracts form in the eye, they end up blocking our vision and with time, the condition worsens enough and the result is total blindness.
Although cataracts don’t affect both the eyes at once, they can render you totally blind without proper treatment. The most effective way to treat a cataract is through surgery.
So, now that we know all about cataracts, let’s take a look at the possible ways to prevent them:
Symptoms
Before we get to the prevention and protection part, let’s take a look at the symptoms of cataracts that you should watch out for.
If you’re experiencing blurry vision, it’s possible that this could be the beginning of the development of the protein that leads to the serious problem. Another hint towards the issue could be the troubles patients report facing when they are trying to see things at night. Furthermore, people with cataracts also say they experience increased sensitivity to glares and see halos around illuminated lights.
These and some other symptoms such as double vision and frequent need to change prescription glasses are associated with cataracts. Now, let’s move on to prevention and protection:
Healthy Diet
Like all diseases, you can also avoid eye problems if you focus on eating healthy. One of the chief reasons that people develop cataracts is unhealthy dietary habits. The secret is blood sugar. Maintaining ideal blood sugar is important to drastically reduce the chances of ever getting cataracts. The way you can accomplish this is by eating a lot of vegetables and fruits. Since they are natural and very effective in providing sufficient vitamins and important nutrients needed by our body, they should be your top priority.
Another type of food you need to focus on includes those items that are high antioxidants. Some of these can be selenium, vitamins C and E along with beta-carotene, etc. These are influential in improving your chances against cataracts.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
It’s crucial for people to understand that smoking is another cause of developing cataracts. Even though you might not be displaying symptoms of eye problems at an early age, it can come at a later time with a vengeance.
The same is the case with alcohol. Although people who consume alcohol at normal levels are safe, it’s difficult to say where the line is. Therefore, it’s better to be safe than sorry and adopt a precautionary habit to stay away from too much alcohol. Not only is it bad for your overall health, but it can also play a significant role in the development of cataracts.
Stay Out of the Sun
Cataracts often develop in your eyes when they are exposed to ultraviolet light. One of the major sources of UV rays is the sun. Since ozone is depleting, these rays are getting through more and more on a daily basis and thus, the risks of cataracts are increasing. One common misconception that people have is that cataracts are only affecting people who’re above 60. Whereas, contrary to common belief, teenagers and even children can develop cataracts if they are exposed to certain environments.
Wearing a wide hat that covers your head enough to shield your eyes from the sun is an effective precautionary measure. In addition to this, you can also wear shades and polaroid glasses that are helpful in reducing the light that comes in contact with your eyes.
Get Yourself Checked Regularly
Another common cause of cataracts has been noted to be previous injuries to the eyes. Whenever you get injured and you hurt your eyes, it’s best to have the best eye doctors in Dubai take a look. Chances are that there might be unresolved issues or remnants from pollutants that are left inside. Given the nature of the organ, there’s no guarantee that even a little bit won’t present to be a big problem.
Similarly, if you’ve had serious significant problems like cancer and have gone through treatments involving x-rays, you should get yourself checked for signs of cataracts. Moreover, if you have a diabetic condition, your chances of getting cataracts increase significantly. This, combined with a genetic inheritance of family history involving cataracts can be dangerous. Although cataract is just one of the problems you can have in your eyes, they are nonetheless serious enough for you to take care of yourself.
